Empathetic Psychology Services for Autistic Individuals with Anxiety
We understand that navigating life with autism and other types of neurodivergence can present unique challenges, especially when anxiety becomes a companion on that journey. Our specialized psychology services are designed to provide compassionate support to autistic individuals dealing with anxiety.
Navigating the Intersection of Autism and Anxiety
Autism and anxiety often coexist, creating a complex landscape that requires specialized care. Because of the difficulty of managing life in a neurotypical world and the unique neurology present with autism, research finds that autistic individuals are much more likely to experience anxiety and OCD than the rest of the population.
Holistic and Individualized Support
Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of both autism spectrum disorders and anxiety. We prioritize individualized care, recognizing the unique strengths and challenges of each client. Through evidence-based practices, we work collaboratively to develop strategies that empower autistic individuals to manage anxiety effectively.
Anxiety Management: We offer personalized strategies to manage and alleviate anxiety and OCD symptoms that are tailored to the unique sensory needs and communication styles of autistic individuals.
Social Skills Development: Our programs focus on enhancing social skills and confidence in social situations. We are a neurodiversity-affirming clinic, and we strive to help our clients identify their own strengths and preferences and to find workable strategies to successfully navigate challenging social situations.
Coping Mechanisms: Learn practical and effective coping mechanisms to navigate everyday challenges, fostering a sense of resilience.
Incorporating Evidence-Based Approaches
Our therapists specialize in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It is important to us to provide you with the therapies that are known to work for anxiety and OCD. In our practice, these approaches are carefully adapted to align with the sensory and communication needs of autistic individuals.
In recent years, many autistic adults have spoken out about the harms they have suffered as a result of participating in applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy. We are very aware of these concerns, and we strive to avoid similar pitfalls in our approach to anxiety treatment.
While we do offer exposure therapy or ERP (exposure and response prevention) as part of our treatment of anxiety and OCD, we do a careful assessment to ensure we are only targeting specific anxiety symptoms with these approaches. We require full consent of all clients, including children, before engaging in any exposure activities. And we are committed to using alternative approaches with anyone who decides that they want to try something besides exposure therapy.
We strive to stay up to date with the latest advances in anxiety treatment, particularly for autistic individuals. And we strive to help each client find solutions for their anxieties and intrusive thoughts that work for them.
Begin Your Journey to Well-Being
If this resonates with you and your personal or family situation, please reach out to us for more information on how to get started with treatment for anxiety or OCD. Our client coordinator is happy to help you determine if our practice is a good fit for you and get you connected with the support you need. We are available in person in Santa Clarita, CA, in the northern part of Los Angeles County. We are also available through telehealth for online therapy in Los Angeles or anywhere throughout California. We can be reached by phone at 661-430-9300 or by email at info@drnicoleconnolly.com.